Many owners of period properties are opting to reinstate or repair lime renders to help maintain breathability. This traditional building material is also popular for eco builds due to its durability and lower environmental impact than cement based render.
Lime render helps moisture naturally escape from a building structure, which means using the correct breathable paint is vital. This highly flexible and breathable material is only effective when paired with an appropriate paint with similar properties.
The benefits of a breathable exterior render are lost if you cover it with the wrong paint. This guide explains why breathability matters, what to look for, and which paints work best for lime render.
What Is Lime Render?
Lime render is a sustainable building material made from lime, sand, and water. Unlike cement based renders, it lets moisture evaporate from the fabric of the building. It’s highly flexible, and even self repairs small cracks.
Properties of lime render:
- Highly breathable - prevents damp and damage due to trapped moisture.
- Flexible - deals with natural building movement.
- Natural & sustainable - absorbs CO₂ as it cures, unlike cement based alternatives.
- Alkalinity - naturally mould and algae resistant.
- Soft texture - creates a muted, natural look.
Why Lime Render Needs Breathable Paint
Lime render absorbs and releases moisture from the building fabric. To maintain this cycle, it must be paired with a breathable paint.
Non-breathable masonry paints (acrylic or vinyl) can:
- Trap moisture in the building.
- Cause damp patches, peeling paint, or blown render.
- Lead to structural damage over time.
Always check the paint’s vapour permeability (Sd value). For lime render, only use paints with an Sd value below 0.5. The word “breathable” is not regulated in paint marketing.
Recommended Breathable Paints for Lime Render
At Greenshop Paints, we recommend paints that perform well on lime render with strong eco credentials:
- Auro 344 - mineral paint from aged slaked lime. High breathability, mould resistant, even absorbs odours.
- Earthborn Silicate Masonry Paint - silicate based, available in 48 colours. Durable and weather resistant. A great alternative to standard masonry paints or limewash.
- Lime Earth Limewash - modern lime paint with traditional look, improved performance, and many colours.
How to Apply Breathable Paint on Lime Render
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions. General rules include:
Preparation
Fresh lime render must cure 4–6 weeks. Ensure surface is clean and dry before painting.
Priming
Silicate paints usually require a primer, lime paints often don’t. Check the datasheet.
Application
Apply a thinned mist coat first, then two full coats with brush or roller. Allow each coat to dry fully before the next.
FAQs
Can you use standard masonry paint on lime render?
No, it will trap moisture and cause damage.
How do I know if a paint is breathable?
Check the Sd value on the datasheet. It must be 0.5 or lower.
Do I need a primer on lime render?
It depends – silicate paints often need one, lime paints usually don’t. Always check instructions.
Read more: Best Breathable Paint for Lime Plaster | Breathable Paint for Old Houses | What is Distemper Paint | Best breathable paint for cellar walls | Breathable masonry paint | Breathable paint for wood
Breathable Paint is Vital
Choosing the right breathable paint for lime render protects your walls, maintains home health, and ensures durability. Whether maintaining a listed building or finishing an eco build, breathable mineral paints will keep lime render performing as it should.
Contact us for tailored advice, or order a free colour chart to explore our natural paint colours.
